Hillary Rodham Clinton ’69 Becomes the First Woman to Be the Presumptive Presidential Nominee of a Major Political Party

June 8, 2016

History was made last night when Hillary Rodham Clinton ’69 secured enough delegates to become the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee. She is the first woman to achieve this historic milestone.

“Tonight caps an amazing journey—a long, long journey,” Clinton told supporters late last night at a rally in Brooklyn, N.Y. Clinton acknowledged the historic moment that began more than a century ago in Seneca Falls, N.Y. where the fight for women’s rights first began. “We all owe so much to those who came before, and tonight belongs to all of you.” Clinton also mentioned her own mother, who was born on the same day that the 19th amendment—giving women the right to vote—was passed. Dorothy Rodham had been a huge supporter and advocate of Clinton studying at Wellesley as she herself was not able to attend college.

Wellesley acknowledged this extraordinary achievement on social media last night. Thousands of followers liked the post on the College’s Facebook page, and dozens commented as well.

One alumna wrote, “So proud to be a Wellesley alum tonight as I watch my sister make history!” Another commented, “Wherever you fall on the political spectrum, you have to admit that this is history in the making. I am so proud to be a Wellesley graduate....a great day for my alma mater.” Others just took a moment to acknowledge the milestone: “Love, love, love!!! So proud to be a small part of this historic moment.”

Clinton has kept close ties to her alma mater over the years. While Wellesley cannot support or endorse any political candidate, campaign, or party, we are proud of all our alumnae and their accomplishments, especially at moments when they are shattering glass ceilings.